Strictly mystery as Nadiya and former partner Dan Walker celebrate her birthday together – but keep cosy meal a secret
Pro dancer Nadiya enjoyed a glam "belated birthday" celebration
STRICTLY star Nadiya Bychkova celebrated her ‘belated birthday’ – with past dance partner Dan Walker secretly in attendance.
The Ukrainian pro dancer, 35, and broadcaster Dan, 47, teamed up on the BBC show in 2021.
Although Nadiya celebrated her actual birthday in August, she has just marked the occasion in style.
Joined by pal Jemma Bolt, she indulged in caviar tasting at The Ritz in London.
Taking to Instagram, the owner of the caviar tasting business revealed how Channel 5 star Dan had been in attendance.
Neither of the former Strictly co-stars have shared anything on social media about their reunion.
In fact, Nadiya’s post about her “belated birthday” instead focused on her joint celebration as a whole.
She penned, in part: “The most magical evening.
“Celebrating our belated birthdays with my dear @jemmabolt, celebrating friendship, celebrating life.
“Last night couldn’t be more perfect. It was like a fairytale.”
The pro dancer continued: “The most iconic place @theritzlondon. With the most incredible people.”
During their stint, Dan and Nadiya reached the Strictly quarter finals before ultimately being eliminated.
Following his exit, the newsreader said at the time: “I’m not a dancer, but she showed me that I can dance.
“And that for me, this has been an absolutely incredible experience.”
He added: “There are some people that walk into your life and turn some lights on and that’s what she has done to me.
“You’re an amazing person, and if you’ll have me, I’ll be your friend for life Nadiya Bychkova, OK?”
Dan Walker's career highlights
North West Tonight – Dan began working at this regional news programme for the BBC in 2004. One year later he was nominated for the Nations and Regions Sports Presenter or Commentator prize at the Royal Television Society Sports Awards.
Football Focus – He took over as the presenter of the BBC show in 2009. He headed up the show for the next 12 years before Alex Scott took over in 2021.
BBC Breakfast – Dan Walker started hosting the popular morning news show in 2016.
Strictly Come Dancing – He took to the ballroom floor alongside professional dancer Nadiya Bychkova in 2021. Dan made it to the final five, but was eliminated before he could claim a spot in the semi-finals.
Channel 5 – The presenter made the switch from the Beeb to Channel 5 in 2022, where he continued to cover UK news.
The Weakest Link – He participated in an episode of the quiz show in 2022 alongside other former Strictly stars. Dan won the special and managed to bank £10,000 for charity.
Classic FM – Dan started hosting the weekday breakfast show on the radio programme in 2024, and within months racked up over 2 million listeners.
Nadiya’s latest Strictly partner was triple Olympic Gold medallist Tom Dean.
Unfortunately, their time dancing together on the BBC show was swiftly cut short.
In week two, they became the first couple to exit the competition.
Strictly continues on BBC One and iPlayer.
